Why Would My Gastroenterologist Decide to Perform an Upper Endoscopy?

Upper endoscopy enables the gastroenterologist to look inside the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the small intestine). Upper endoscopy is also called EGD, which stands for esophagogastroduodenoscopy. The procedure can be performed to determine the reason for swallowing difficulties, nausea, vomiting, reflux, bleeding, indigestion, abdominal pain or chest pain. An endoscopy is much more accurate than an X-ray for detecting inflammation or abnormalities such as tumors or ulcers that are within the reach of the instrument. Its other advantage is the ability to perform biopsies (obtain small pieces of tissue) to determine whether any abnormal finding is benign or malignant. Blair Gastroenterology Associates specializes in endoscopic procedures and would be happy to accommodate your need for this type of testing. Please be sure to contact our office or speak to your primary care doctor today about referring you to one of our specialists.

What Can I Expect During My Endoscopy?

For the procedure the patient will swallow a thin, flexible, lighted tube called an endoscope, or “scope”. A short-acting sedative is given by a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) to make the individual comfortable during the procedure. The endoscope transmits an image of the inside of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum so that the physician can carefully examine the lining of these organs. The scope can also put air into the stomach; this expands the folds of tissue and makes it easier for the physician to examine the stomach. The air can be removed with the scope or will be naturally expelled.

Preparing for your Endoscopy

Before the procedure, you will be asked to not eat or drink for at least 6 hours, to ensure your stomach is empty. You will also need to stop taking certain blood-thinning medications in the days prior to your procedure. Blood thinners may increase your risk of bleeding during an endoscopy. After your procedure, although you may feel mentally alert, your memory and reaction times and judgment may sometimes be impaired. Because of this, you will need someone to drive you home. You will be instructed to rest at home after your procedure and return to work or school the following day.

Where Will My Endoscopy Be Performed?

Allegheny Regional Endoscopy is in the adjacent suite beside the Blair Gastroenterology Offices and shares the same reception area. Allegheny Regional Endoscopy, accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, is the regional expert and trusted authority in preforming this service. Our state-of-the-art facility is licensed in the state of Pennsylvania as an Ambulatory Surgical Facility specializing in endoscopic procedures (EGD and Colonoscopy). Some services are also offered at UPMC Altoona and Conemaugh Nason Hospitals.

Specialty Endoscopic Procedures Performed at Allegheny Regional Endoscopy